Irish Stew Pie Pops – A Whimsical Take on a Hearty Classic
Irish Stew Pie Pops are a playful twist on the traditional Irish stew, wrapped in buttery pastry and served on sticks like lollipops. These bite-sized hand pies are filled with tender lamb or beef, carrots, and potatoes in a rich gravy—perfect for parties, picnics, or festive gatherings. Fun, flavorful, and portable, they bring a touch of Irish comfort food to any occasion.
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Serves: 10–12 pie pops
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil or butter
- 200g diced lamb or beef (pre-cooked or browned)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 small potato, finely diced
- 1 tbsp flour
- 150ml beef or lamb stock
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sheet shortcrust pastry (ready-rolled or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 12 food-grade lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrot, and potato until soft (about 8–10 minutes).
- Add the cooked meat and stir in the flour to coat. Gradually pour in the stock, stirring until thickened into a gravy. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Roll out the pastry and cut into circles (about 6–8cm diameter). Place half of the circles on the baking tray.
- Spoon a small amount of filling onto the center of each base circle. Place a lollipop stick on top, gently pressing it into the filling.
- Brush the edges with egg wash, cover with another pastry circle, and seal by pressing the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops with more egg wash and cut a small slit in each for steam to escape.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of mustard dip, gravy, or a creamy horseradish sauce for extra indulgence. Ideal for St. Patrick’s Day parties, pub nights, or kid-friendly snacks with an Irish twist!